Legal Definitions - outlaw

Definition: An outlaw is a person who is outside of the protection of the law. In the past, if someone was accused of a crime and refused to submit to legal process, they could be declared an outlaw through a process called "outlawry." This meant that they were no longer protected by the law and anyone could kill them without facing punishment. Today, the term "outlaw" is used to describe someone who habitually breaks the law.

Example: In the Wild West, there were many outlaws who robbed banks and trains. They were often pursued by law enforcement, but some became famous for their crimes, like Jesse James and Billy the Kid.

Explanation: These examples illustrate the historical use of the term "outlaw" to describe someone who was outside of the protection of the law. In the Wild West, outlaws were often romanticized in popular culture, but in reality, they were dangerous criminals who posed a threat to society.

Example: The government has outlawed the use of plastic bags in many cities to reduce waste and protect the environment.

Explanation: This example illustrates the modern use of the term "outlaw" as a verb, meaning to make an activity illegal. In this case, the government has made the use of plastic bags illegal in order to promote sustainability.